“During this extraordinarily challenging time, the eight Feeding America food banks and their local networks of community agencies that serve Illinois are working relentlessly to ensure that nobody — in any county — of our great state goes hungry,” said Steve Ericson, executive director for Feeding Illinois.

“The need for food assistance and related services is growing exponentially due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic effects," he said. "Thank you to the Illinois Farm Bureau, its County offices and especially its Young Leaders for activating to help garner support to help residents in need across our state.”

Young Leaders set a fundraising goal of $2,500 per food bank. In addition to donations collected online, Illinois Farm Bureau has pledged to match donations dollar for dollar up to $1,000 for each location.

“So many people are at home right now and while they aren't sure where to start, they feel a desire to help their communities during this time of need,” said Aaron Mitchell, Illinois Farm Bureau Young Leader Committee member and Winnebago County dairy farmer. “By providing an avenue to donate online and spread the word through social media, we hope to provide an opportunity for everyone to make a difference.”